How to distinguish between stomach pain and stomach cancer symptoms? Expert speaks
Frequent stomach ache? It can also be a sign of stomach cancer. Experts reveal the difference between normal stomach ache and stomach cancer symptoms.
DOCTOR VERIFIED
Stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the third leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Stomach cancer usually starts near the lining of the stomach. There are various symptoms of developing cancer and having the right information and awareness can help in timely intervention and proper treatment. In addition to bloating, stomach pain is a common symptom. But how exactly do we get between normal stomach pain and cancer pain?
To understand the difference, India.com contacted Dr. Subhash Agal, Head of Department of Gastroenterology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai. He explained the risk factors and the difference.
Symptoms of stomach cancer
Risk factors include diet (smoked, pickled, and processed foods), Helicobacter pylori infection, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and family history of stomach cancer. Helicobacter pylori bacteria also cause non-cancerous stomach ulcers. Early symptoms of stomach cancer include heartburn, bloating, upper abdominal pain, nausea, belching, and loss of appetite. There is a high degree of overlap of symptoms between dyspepsia and stomach cancer.
There is no specific symptom of stomach cancer. Therefore, if a person has symptoms and also has risk factors as mentioned above, it is better to clarify the diagnosis with the help of endoscopy. Late symptoms include weight loss, paleness and jaundice, blood vomiting, difficulty swallowing and black stools. These latter symptoms generally indicate the possibility of stomach cancer and should not be taken lightly. Even with early symptoms as described above, one should consult a gastroenterologist, because early diagnosis is the key to curative treatment.
How to distinguish between normal abdominal pain and signs of stomach cancer?
Distinguishing between normal abdominal pain and possible signs of stomach cancer depends on a few key differences. A common stomach ache often arises from temporary triggers such as indigestion, usually goes away within a short time and is not persistent. On the other hand, signs of stomach cancer include persistent and worsening pain, unexplained weight loss, persistent nausea or vomiting (especially if there is blood), loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, and the presence of blood in vomit or stool. These symptoms, especially when they persist or worsen, should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Although concerning, these symptoms do not always indicate cancer, as different conditions can manifest similarly. Consulting a doctor is essential for proper assessment and guidance.
Ways to lower the risk of stomach cancer
Lowering your risk of stomach cancer involves eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed foods, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, practicing good food hygiene, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise, and tackles H. pylori infections quickly. and discussing any ongoing symptoms or family history of stomach cancer with healthcare providers for guidance and tailored screenings.
Treatment for stomach cancer includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, combined modalities and palliative care (if the disease is widespread in the body and the patient is in poor general health). Local diseases (cancer in the stomach) can be treated with surgery. The spread of cancer to other organs, called metastatic disease, can be managed with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. In some cases, chemotherapy is necessary before surgery to reduce the disease burden. By staying informed about the causes, advances in treatment, and taking preventative measures, we can work together to reduce the burden of this disease in the community.